We invite all same-gender-loving men of African heritage to join us in the gathering for our 22nd annual ADODI retreat: "Living our Authentic ADODI Lives". Creating an authentic life simply means that a person consciously strives to become a whole person and lives the life that gives them purpose and joy within the context of a supportive community.


Burr Oak Resort

The goal of the 2008 retreat is to give each attendee the opportunity to examine areas of their lives where barriers to joy may exist and develop a plan of action to tackle these challenges and cultivate a deeper sense of alignment with one's self, others, and their environment.

Workshops, African inspired rituals, daily affirmations and other activities will be inclusive of the above mentioned concepts. The purpose will be to stimulate consideration of resources that may be useful tools to begin to achieve predetermined goals.

We look forward to welcoming you on this adventure of exploration and celebration.

The '08 Retreat Planning Committee

"The ADODI retreat was one of the most unique, exciting and affirming experiences that I've ever had" – Eric G, Columbus OH

Registration Fee Information:

If paid in full by April 15, '08 $525.00
If paid in full by June 15, '08 $575.00
After June 15, '08 $625.00

 Pricing includes:

Round trip transportation from Port Columbus International Airport, Columbus, Ohio and downtown Columbus bus terminal. - Dinner Wednesday; 3 meals Thursday, Friday and Saturday; brunch Sunday. - Double occupancy rooms. - All retreat materials and a retreat t-shirt are also included.

Partial payments may be made at any time, however to receive the early registration fee the full price has to be paid by the deadline listed above.

Full retreat fee payments made after July 1st must be made in the form of cashiers check or money order.

Deposits and registrations are transferable but NON-REFUNDABLE.

Limited scholarships are available to those who qualify. To request a scholarship application contact: Paul Smith: paulmsmith@yahoo.com (954) 921-5910

Please complete, detach and mail the completed registration form with your payment to:

ADODI National
P.O. Box 1460
Chicago, Illinois 60690-1460

What To Bring:

  • Casual attire including comfortable shoes, workout clothing and swim wear.
  • Personal toiletries, medication, a beach towel, insect repellent, a flashlight.
  • A plain white T-Shirt or white African garment with no logo's or colors or colored stitching for the Tribute to the Ancestors.
  • African drums and bells.
  • Musical instruments, pre-recorded or sheet music, poetry, costume(s) or other accessories if you wish to participate in the Talent Sharing.
  • A desire to let yourself participate in a community of men who wish to affirm and accept you just as you are. - A desire to affirm and accept others.
  • Your spiritual gifts and the desire to explore/share them.
  • Music, DVD's, board games, card games.

What NOT To Bring:

  • Large sums of money or expensive jewelry.
  • Illegal drugs - Alcoholic beverages

Cell phone reception is negligible at retreat site.

Neither ADODI National nor Burr Oak Resort & Conference Center can assume responsibility for lost or stolen articles.

This is a drug and alcohol free weekend.

For more information please contact:

Eric Green 614.337.2903
Courtney Cruise 347.427.2086
Clarence Brown (Registration) 773.643.8265
Steve Williams (Workshops) 718.797.9054
Robert Brooks (Logistics) 212.926.0043

Email: adodi.retreat2008@yahoo.com

ABOUT the Burr Oak Resort and Conference Center

Perched atop a hill overlooking Burr Oak Lake, Burr Oak Resort & Conference Center blends beautifully into the surrounding forest setting. Accommodations include a 60-room lodge, where you will find the Dining Room, Lounge, an indoor pool, a beautiful A-frame ceiling and glass-enclosed lobby with lovely lake views, wood-burning fireplace, large screen TV and 6 meeting rooms.

Most of the rooms offer breathtaking views of sparkling Burr Oak Lake, while others provide a glimpse of the surrounding park. The rooms contain one double and one single bed. Each room also features a bathroom with shower and a small table with chairs.   www.burroakresort.com